Col Monte by Scott Alexander

Effect

Col Monte is a classic packet trick that simulates the well-known street hustle, Three Card Monte. The magician uses three ungimmicked cards to create the illusion of a fast-paced card game where the spectator tries to follow the location of a specific card. Despite the spectator's best efforts, the card seems to vanish and reappear in impossible locations, leaving them baffled.

Full details

Col Monte is performed with three cards, typically including a target card like the Ace of Spades or Ace of Hearts, and a Joker. The magician tells a story about losing money to a street hustler, adding a narrative layer to the trick. The routine involves a series of moves that make it appear as though the cards are being shuffled or swapped, but the target card always ends up in an unexpected place. The trick can be performed with or without a table, making it versatile for different performance settings. Some versions, like Scott Alexander's pro version, include subtle modifications to the cards to enhance the smoothness of the routine.

Who should consider the trick

Col Monte is ideal for magicians who enjoy packet tricks and want a quick, engaging routine that can be performed almost anywhere. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate storytelling in their magic, as the trick lends itself well to patter about street hustles and gambling. It’s also a great choice for performers who want a trick that can be adapted to both close-up and parlor settings, especially with the availability of jumbo card versions.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

Col Monte is relatively easy to learn, making it accessible for magicians of all skill levels. The basic moves are straightforward, but mastering the timing and misdirection can elevate the performance. The trick requires some practice to ensure the moves look natural and the story flows smoothly. For those using versions like Scott Alexander's pro version, the subtle modifications to the cards may require additional attention to detail, but they enhance the overall effect.

What magicians say

Steven Mills, a seasoned magician with six decades of experience, praises Col Monte for its simplicity and effectiveness. He mentions using Scott Alexander's pro version, which includes small changes to the cards that make the routine smoother and more deceptive. Mills also appreciates the corny rhyming patter that comes with the trick, noting that it works well for both adults and children. He highlights the trick's versatility, as it can be performed without a table with a little thought, making it practical for various performance environments. Overall, Col Monte is described as a well-honed idea that has stood the test of time, making it a reliable choice for any magician's repertoire.